Blue grade: e.g. typical club weekly local XC ride on Wednesday and Sundays and away days i.e. Cannock Chase, Afan
Ride time, 2-3 hours maximum
Relaxed or brisk pace (some stamina is required)
May incorporate some small jumps which may be avoidable
May incorporate some small drops which may be avoidable
Typical Bigfoot single track
Steeper terrain
Some climbing
Hard tail / full suspension bike suitable
Knee/leg armour advisable

Red grade: e.g. tougher away day rides i.e. Mendips, Rhyader, Quantocks, Afan
Ride time, 2-5 hours maximum
Brisk / fast pace
May incorporate some small to medium size jumps which may or may NOT be avoidable
May incorporate some small to medium size drops which may or may NOT be avoidable
Typical Bigfoot single track
Steep, rocky terrain
Lots of climbing
Hard tail suitable but full suspension strongly advisable
Knee/leg protection strongly advisable

Black grade: e.g. uplift/downhill days, club jump sessions This grading is for down hilling and jump sessions only.
Will incorporate some large sized jumps which may NOT be avoidable.
Will incorporate some large sized drops which may NOT be avoidable.
Very steep, rocky terrain
Full suspension bike only, minimum of 6 inches advisable
Body armour strongly advisable
Full face helmet strongly advisable and may be mandatory by an organised uplift or event.
Arm armour strongly advisable
Knee/leg armour a must